Chose for 2 months. The main competitors are Canon EOS 550D, Nikon D5000. Nikon fell off first, as the oldest of the three, uncomfortable in the hand and with more limited equipment. Canon disappeared due to weak whale optics (I did not plan to buy more at the entrance), slow and stupid LiveView mode, non-rotating display and high cost. If we compare both models, then Canon loses in innovation that Sony has, and wins in the presence of video and a wide range of optics. One of the decisive factors in favor of the Sony A550 was the stabilization built into the body (no need to look for optics with built-in stabilization), as well as the speed of the camera as a whole. In any case, before buying, you need to hold each of them in your hands and look at the photos. Sony A550 is the best choice at the level of Pro Consumer DSLRs. Photos for doubters - in the profile.
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